New Mexico Dept. of Health offers guidance for all 3 COVID-19 boosters

Deming Headlight - 10/25/2021

SANTA FE - The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced the approval of booster doses for the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines for certain populations. (Pfizer boosters have been available since late September). The CDC also approved "mixing and matching" for all three COVID-19 vaccines. CDC clinical guidance has not yet been released, and the New Mexico Medical Advisory Team reviewed it on Monday after it was released.

For New Mexicans who received a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, the following groups are eligible for a booster shot at 6 months or more after completion of their initial series:

** 65 years and older

** 18+ who live in long-term care settings

** 18+ who have underlying medical conditions

** 18+ who work or live in high-risk settings

For New Mexicans who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, booster shots are also recommended for those who are 18 and older and who were vaccinated two or more months ago.

Note: Moderna boosters are a half dose. Immunocompromised people receiving a third shot for additional immunity, however, will continue to receive a full dose.

"Many New Mexicans will benefit from additional protection, and DOH will work hand-in-hand with our healthcare partners to ensure that boosters are available," said DOH Acting Secretary David R. Scrase, M.D. "That said, the most urgent task remains vaccinating New Mexicans who have not yet received their primary doses - and we encourage them to do so."

Available data show that all three of the COVID-19 vaccines approved or authorized in the United States continue to be highly effective in reducing risk of severe disease, hospitalization, and death, even against the current Delta variant.

Scheduling vaccinations

New Mexicans are encouraged to schedule their primary and booster shots with their primary care physicians. They can also do so through the statewide vaccine COVID-19 vaccine registration system, vaccineNM.org. "Mix and match" booster scheduling will likely be available early next week.

New Mexicans without access to the internet can call 1-855-600-3453 for scheduling assistance.

Long-term care facilities

The New Mexico Aging and Long-Term Services Department will coordinate the distribution of boosters to the residents and staff of long-term care facilities who have completed their primary dose regimen.

Additional information

The state is in the process of updating information on its booster website.

The Department of Health also encourages New Mexicans to confirm that their vaccine records are up-to-date. New Mexicans who need assistance updating their vaccineNM.org records can call the DOH hotline at 1-855-600-3453. New Mexicans who need assistance updating their vaxviewNM.org record can call the NMSIIS Help Desk at 1-833-882-6454.